Convicted thief, Sabelo Zondi received a tongue-lashing from Magistrate Thandi Twele for lying to the court.
During sentencing proceedings at the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court, Twele told Zondi that during the trial he lied and fabricated evidence.
“There was no indication of remorse from you throughout the trial,” Twele said.
Zondi was found guilty of theft of motor vehicle. He was sentenced to seven years imprisonment of which three years of it is suspended.
Twele said for sentencing, the court takes into account the seriousness of the offence, personal circumstances of the accused and also the public interest. She further pointed out that theft of motor vehicle crimes were on the rise in the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court’s jurisdiction.
During mitigation for sentencing proceeding, the 37-year-old Zondi told the court that he had one child, was unmarried and he went to school until Grade 10. He further went on to point out that he was epileptic. He also pleaded with the court to place him under correctional supervision as the item he had stolen was recovered.
Details: 10111.Edited by Stacey Woensdregt
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